Kennedy Burke’s blossoming offensive game providing Liberty extra firepower

Defenses have begun adjusting to Kennedy Burke's exceptional three-point shooting, a trend she noticed during the Liberty's previous game against the Atlanta Dream on June 29, where she went 1-for-6 from beyond the arc. Burke and head coach Sandy Brondello acknowledged this defensive shift was inevitable given her "off the charts" shooting performance this season.

Despite the recent defensive focus, Burke remains a strong contender for Sixth Player of the Year. She leads the WNBA in three-point percentage (48.6%), a significant jump from her 25.9% in 2024. Her attempts have also increased notably, from 1.5 to 3.7 per game, though her total attempts (70) are still fewer than prolific shooters like Atlanta's Rhyne Howard (185) or teammate Sabrina Ionescu (145).

To counter defenses taking away her three-point shot, Burke has increasingly relied on attacking the basket off the dribble, utilizing her quick first step. She also leverages her strong defense, exemplified by six steals against Las Vegas, to generate offensive opportunities. This adaptation aims to sustain her breakout season, especially after increased minutes due to Liberty absences in the first half of the year.

Burke's preparation for this defensive adjustment began in the offseason with intensive three-point practice (both catch-and-shoot and off-the-dribble) and specific work on driving to the basket. The effectiveness of this work became evident early this season, including a game where she made all four of her three-point attempts. This breakout contrasts with her 2024 season, her first with the Liberty, where she struggled to find a consistent role within the team's rigid rotation.